Charter Schools and Choice

Options are now the norm in public education through the growth of charter schools, inter- and intra-district choice, virtual learning, and a diversity of other models within district-run schools. Learn more about our Charter Schools and Choice work.

Options are now the norm in public education through the growth of charter schools, inter- and intra-district choice, virtual learning, and a diversity of other models within district-run schools. With greater choice comes the potential to improve many aspects of public education—by offering students schools and programs that better serve their needs, giving educators more say in where and how they teach, and creating new incentives and accountability structures. But there are many potential downsides, including increased segregation, the creation of low-quality schools, a loss of public accountability, and a shift away from the public mission of public education. Our work on school choice, which recognizes both sides of the debate, encourages growth in the movement in a way that maintains public accountability, equity, and efficiency, and that improves outcomes for public school students.

Options are now the norm in public education through the growth of charter schools, inter- and intra-district choice, virtual learning, and a diversity of other models within district-run schools. With greater choice comes the potential to improve many aspects of public education—by offering students schools and programs that better serve their needs, giving educators more say in where and how they teach, and creating new incentives and accountability structures. But there are many potential downsides, including increased segregation, the creation of low-quality schools, a loss of public accountability, and a shift away from the public mission of public education. Our work on school choice, which recognizes both sides of the debate, encourages growth in the movement in a way that maintains public accountability, equity, and efficiency, and that improves outcomes for public school students.